Whatever kind of freelance or consulting work you do, one of
best ways to attract top clients is to position yourself clearly as an expert in your field.And yes, you first have to be an expert. You don't have to be world's leading expert, but you do need to know what you're talking about, and in real depth.
To become a credible expert it first helps if you choose your niche carefully.
If your niche is too broad - like 'all consumer electronics' - you'll find it hard to position yourself as a true expert.
If your niche is too narrow - like 'Sony PlayStation' - you'll find it hard to make a living.
Niches like 'computer games' or 'home entertainment' are perfect. It won't take you a lifetime to become an expert in either field, and there are plenty of prospective clients to choose from.
Of course, it will help enormously if you choose a niche in an area that genuinely interests you.
>> Got expertise? Here's next step...
One of fastest ways to get word out is to get your name in print. In other words, write articles.
It's strangest thing...but as soon as someone sees your name in print, your 'expert' status automatically jumps up several notches.
Publish your articles on your own web site. And make it known that other site editors can reprint your articles on their own sites and in their newsletters. Get word out through a blog and by participating in discussion groups.
And, of course, every article should include a short bio and link back to your own site.
>> What's better than having your articles online?
The next step is to get your articles printed in real print publications, on paper. Again, strangely, an article on paper earns you more expert points than an article on web.
